February 18, 2026 Amityville Copiague

612 Wellwood Ave., Lindenhurst $35.00 per person

Includes Appetizer, Soup or Salad, Dinner, Dessert, Soda, Coffee

Please RSVP: info@copiaguechamber.org

WHERE BETTER NEVER STOPS.

Introducing the most advanced, state-of-the-art health care experience the South Shore has ever seen.

Here at Good Samaritan University Hospital, “better” isn’t a finish line. It’s a starting point. A new beginning. A symbol of transformation our community deserves. And while our Patient Care Pavilion will feature an all-new, expanded emergency department, technologically advanced operating rooms, reimagined private patient rooms, and enhanced Trauma and Stroke centers, we know that better care isn’t just about the building. It’s about the people inside, and the hands that heal. Because better is something we live every day. And it never stops.

To learn more, scan the code or visit chsli.org/BetterNeverStops This is the new Good Samaritan University Hospital.

Graduates Return To Amityville Memorial HS For Alumni Day

On Jan. 28, Amityville Memorial High School welcomed former students back to the Amityville School District during Alumni Day.

Held in the high school library, the event gave current students the opportunity to connect with alumni, recommit to their academic goals, and reimagine their postsecondary futures. Throughout the day, alumni participated in a panel discussion where they shared their experiences in college and the workforce, and reflected on how the lessons they learned at Amityville Memorial High School helped prepare them for life after graduation.

Current students engaged actively with the panel, asking questions about what to expect after high school, including the pros and cons of living in college residence halls versus commuting.

Alumni offered candid insights and practical advice, helping students better understand the wide range of postsecondary paths available to them.

The district would like to thank the Amityville Memorial High School

alumni who returned to share their time, experiences, and guidance with current students. Their participation played a meaningful role in inspiring students as they plan for their futures.

Winter Senior Advocate Schedules

Suffolk Legislator Tom Donnelly (D-Deer Park) is pleased to inform Babylon and Huntington residents about the local Suffolk County Office for the Aging Winter 2026 Senior Advocate Schedule. Senior advocates are County representatives who come out into the community and assist seniors with information gathering, completion of eligibility or recertification applications and referrals to appropriate community agencies.

“It is so important for us to provide our senior citizens with the assistance and information they need in ways that are most convenient to them. These visits allow our seniors to connect with our County’s senior advocates right in their own communities,” said Legislator Donnelly. “I hope all those interested in the services that the Suffolk County Office for the Aging provides will take advantage of this opportunity.”

This winter, Senior Advocates will be visiting the following locations in the Town of Babylon:

• Deer Park Library, 44 Lake Avenue, Deer Park: Friday, March 20, 8:30 am – 11:30 am

• North Amityville Senior Nutrition Center, 48-C Cedar Road, Amityville:

Wednesdays, February 18 & March 18, 10 am – 1 pm

• Rainbow Senior Center, 293 Buffalo Avenue, Lindenhurst: Wednesday, March 4, 8:30 am – 11 am

• Tanner Park Senior Center, 2 Tanner Park, Copiague: Wednesday, March 11, 8:30 am – 2 pm

• Spangle Drive Senior Center, 4385 Spangle Drive, North Babylon: Tuesdays, February 24 & March 24, 12 pm – 3 pm

• West Babylon Library, 211 Route 109, West Babylon: Thursday, March 26, 10 am – 12 pm

• Wyandanch Senior Nutrition Center, 28 Wyandanch Avenue, Wyandanch: Wednesdays, February 25 & March 25, 10 am – 1 pm

In Huntington, they will be visiting the following:

• Huntington Senior Nutrition Center, 423 Park Avenue, Huntington: Wednesdays, February 18 & March 18, 8:30 am –2 pm

• Paumanack Village 5 & 6, 100 Adriatic Drive, Melville: Thursdays, February 26 & March 26, 8:30 am – 12 pm; residents only

Advocates assist with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP – formerly known as food stamps), Medicare

Savings Program and Heating Emergency Assistance Program (HEAP) applications. They also can provide information on Medicare, answer questions and make recommendations and referrals. For more information about available services or directions to any of these locations, please call the Suffolk County Office for the Aging at (631) 853-8200. “For more than three decades, the Suffolk County Office for the Aging has been providing full and trouble-free access to critical services,” Donnelly said. “I am glad to see their great professional community outreach program continue and hope that every senior resident will make full use of it.”

# # # Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly represents the 17th Legislative District, which includes parts of Baywood, Deer Park, Dix Hills, Huntington, Melville, North Babylon, North Bay Shore and South Huntington. He is a member of the Budget & Finance, Fire, Rescue, EMS & Preparedness, Public Safety, Seniors & Human Services and Ways & Means committees of the Suffolk County Legislature.

“Business First has saved us nearly $3,200.”*

—Lisa Basini, Baking Coach, Bellport

Lisa’s passion is baking. Opening a store was a big step—one she made with support from PSEG Long Island. She earned incentives for choosing a vacant space that reduced her monthly energy costs. Now, her thriving business has made life a little sweeter for all of us.

Reduce your energy costs. Get a free business energy assessment. psegliny.com/businessassessment

*Incentives, grants, and rebates will vary with every project.

Edmund W. Miles MS Violinist Named To Prestigious Orchestra

Edmund W. Miles Middle School eighth grader and violinist Jackson Nehring was selected to represent Amityville as a member of the 2026 Long Island String Festival Association Secondary Honor Orchestras. Photo courtesy of the Amityville Union Free School District

The Amityville School District is proud to announce that Edmund W. Miles Middle School eighth grader and violinist Jackson Nehring was selected to represent Amityville as a member of the 2026 Long Island String Festival Association Secondary Honor Orchestras. Jackson was selected as a violinist in the LISFA Orchestra for outstanding seventh- and eighth-grade string students from across Suffolk County. The

Managing Stress And Anxiety

Everyone handles stress differently. If you or someone close to you is struggling in this stressful time this may be a good resource for them: https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/ prepare/managing-stressanxiety.html

annual festival took place last month at Northport High School. The selection process for this ensemble was extremely competitive and was based on student New York State School Music Association evaluation scores from the Spring 2025 NYSSMA Festival, along with a recommendation from Jackson’s orchestra teacher, Ms. Bianca Ferrante.

The district would like

congratulate Jackson, his family, and Ms. Ferrante on this outstanding achievement.

Tell Us About It!

Let us know about your honors, awards, promotions and other announcements. They are always welcome. Photos can be emailed as well. Send them to editorial@ longislandmediagroup.com.

Josh Marlowe

Victoria Kokolakis

Stephan Schulze

PROOFREADING

Kerry Mastrobuoni

ACCOUNT

EXECUTIVES

Carol Link

Nicole Sims

Kim Volz

Bonnie Schifano

Lucille Moran

Terry Rydyzynski

Noelle Lambert

SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION:

J. F. GOODE FUNERAL HOME

Copiague Memorial Public Library

50 Deauville Boulevard, Copiague, New York 11726

Tel 631-691-1111 Fax 631-691-5098

VITA Tax Assistance

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provided by Bethpage Federal Credit Union will be conducted virtually for the 2026 tax season. Services will be available to taxpayers who meet the necessary criteria by visiting lovebethpage. com/vita and completing the Bethpage Virtual VITA Application. The application will be available February 1 and space is limited. Appointments run through the first week in April.

AARP Tax Assistance

Tuesdays, through April 7

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

IRS-certified AARP Tax-Aide volunteers will be at the library to assist individuals with low to moderate income

in preparing and filing their tax returns. You must pick up a tax information packet at the Information Desk after making your appointment to see what documents you must bring. For joint returns, both spouses must be present with their own photo ID and Social Security card. Please call for an appointment. Registration is required.

Early-Stage Dementia Support Groups

Tuesdays, February 24, & March 3, 10

1:00 - 2:00 PM

This support group is for people in the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease/ dementia and offers activities and discussions that will encourage social engagement, disease education, and a supportive environment. A group for the caregivers will be held at the same time. For more information and to register, please call 1-800-272-3900. Registration is required.

Drum Circle Celebration

Wednesday, February 18

6:30 - 7:30 PM

Join us for a Drum Circle Celebration, an immersive cultural experience in honor of Black History Month! This dynamic event will explore the rich traditions of West African culture through the powerful rhythms of drumming and the vibrant energy of dance. Led by talented members of Project Move, participants will not only witness captivating performances, but also have the opportunity to join the circle, feel the beat, and celebrate the spirit of community, resilience, and heritage. All ages are welcome! Registration is required.

Laughter Yoga Thursday, February 19

6:30 - 7:30 PM

THE LEADER IN ITALIAN TAKEOUT!

Town Of Babylon Honors P.S. I Love You Day With Founders Town Officials, DiPalma Sisters, First Responders, And School Leaders Unite To Raise Mental

Health Awareness

On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, Town of Babylon officials joined P.S. I Love You Day founders Brooke and Jaimie DiPalma, along with local educators, first responders, and community members, for a press conference recognizing P.S. I Love You Day and highlighting the importance of mental health awareness.

After losing their father to suicide, the DiPalma sisters created P.S. I Love You Day, now observed nationally on the second Friday of February each year. The initiative’s mission— to promote mental health awareness, reduce bullying, and strengthen suicide prevention through education and compassion—continues to resonate with communities nationwide.

The event featured remarks from Babylon Town Councilman Terence McSweeney, Brooke and Jaimie DiPalma, and local school officials. In a show of unity and support, Town of Babylon officials, the DiPalma sisters, school administrators and faculty, first responders, and residents in attendance wore purple, the signature color of P.S. I Love You Day, and participated in a group photo inside the Babylon Town Hall Board Room.

To further demonstrate solidarity, the cupola atop Babylon Town Hall and the building’s columns were illuminated in purple in honor of P.S. I Love You Day and those the initiative seeks to support.

SUNDAY, DEC. 7th

FEBRUARY HAPPENINGS

THURSDAY, FEB. 19th

10:00AM-12:00PM

WINTER BIRD WALK: FAMILY PROGRAM

2026 Robert Moses State Park in Babylon, Winter Environmental Event Winter on the beach is one of the best birding times of the year! Dress for the weather and we will be walking on sand. Bring binoculars. Reservations required: Visit Eventbrite.com and search #NatureEdventure. If you are unable to keep your reservation, please call or cancel so others may have the opportunity to attend.

SATURDAY, FEB. 21st

1:00PM–4:00pm

HOLIDAY CHEER BUS AWARDS CEREMONY

KiDS NEED MoRE will host its Holiday Cheer Bus Awards Ceremony to celebrate the volunteers, fundraisers, donors, sponsors, and community partners who made the holiday season possible. The event honors the “elves” behind the scenes who helped spread cheer to children and families across Long Island. Carney’s Irish Pub & Restaurant, 136 Broadway in Amityville. For more information, visit kidsneedmore.org.

7:00PM-11:00PM

DANCE TO THE OLDIES

Will be held at the Wade-Burns VFW 7279, 560 N. Delaware Avenue in Lindenhurst. Tickets $40.00 pp includes: Hero

MAKE A SUBMISSION! Events must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event date and will run free of charge on a space available basis. For more information, please call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com

sandwich, Macaroni and Potato salad, Tap beer, House Wine, Soda, coffee, Tea, Dessert. Music by DJ Ralph. Call Dot Kelly at 631-9576574 for ticket availability. Must be 18 or older to attend.

SUNDAY, FEB. 22nd

9:00AM–12:00pm 33rd ANNUAL PANCAKE BREAKFAST

The Mayor's Beautification Society of Lindenhurst is hosting their annual pancake breakfast at Fireman's Pavilion, 555 Heiling Blvd. Enjoy breakfast, lots of raffles and 50/50. Adults $12 and Seniors (60+) / Children (under 12) $10. Breakfast served until 11:00AM followed by raffle drawings. Purchase at door or email: LINDENHURSTMBS@GMAIL.COM

1:30PM–3:00pm BLACK EXPERIENCES IN THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR LECTURE

The New York State Parks’ Interpreter for African American History will present a special lecture program called “Black Experiences in the Revolutionary War” at Bethpage State Park’s Heritage Club in the Lenox Room. Reservations are required. To register, please visit Eventbrite. com and search by program title or #NatureEdventure. For questions, please call 631-581-1072

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 25th

7:00PM BOY BAND & POP DIVA

MUSIC BINGO

317 Main Street in Farmingdale. All winners will receive a prize! Reserve your spot now and purchase your ticket! 21+ / Limited menu available during the event. For more information, please call 631-921-4670

THRU SAT. FEB. 28th

11:00AM-4:00PM

HIDDEN HEARTS SCAVENGER HUNT

At The Whaling Museum & Education Center, 301 Main St. in Cold Spring Harbor. Find the hidden hearts and snag a prize! Free Event. For more information, please call 631-367-3418

SATURDAY, FEB. 28th

2:00PM

MEGA MAGIC WITH MIKE D’URZO Award-winning magician and mentalist. Michael J. Grant Campus in Brentwood. The Theatres at Suffolk County Community College, in partnership with the Lively Arts Series, announce the Spring 2026 Season, featuring a dynamic lineup of performances presented at the Michael J. Grant and Ammerman campuses. Tickets and information available at sunysuffolk.edu/spotlight or by calling: Michael J. Grant Campus, Brentwood: 631-8516589, Ammerman Campus, Selden: 631-451-4163

Journalism Class Builds Real-World Media And Reporting Skills

Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School students enrolled in Ms. Meidinger’s journalism class are gaining firsthand experience in what it means to think and work like professional journalists. Through hands-on

instruction, students learn to analyze and critique news media while building foundational skills in writing, reporting, interviewing and editing. The course, open to all high school students, introduces multiple styles

of journalism, including digital, photo, broadcast and print media. It explores the basics of journalism ethics, media literacy and responsible reporting, while teaching how to conduct effective interviews and evaluate

sources for accuracy and bias.

Many students in the program also extend their learning beyond the classroom by participating in Copiague Voice News, the school’s digital newspaper, where they help

produce video segments and short public service announcements. This realworld experience allows students to collaborate creatively, apply technical skills and communicate important messages to the school community.

The journalism program empowers students to become informed media consumers and confident storytellers, preparing them for future academic pursuits and careers in communications, media and beyond.

WORDS

Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and backwords.

Classifieds

Copiague Memorial Public Library

From page 6

Boost your well-being, lift your spirits, and melt away stress with the power of laughter!

Laughter Yoga is a fun and refreshing practice that helps you laugh freely. Join certified yoga instructor Patty for a joyful session that proves laughter really is the best medicine! Registration is required.

Defensive Driving

Saturday, February 21

9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Place your ad in the Classifieds 631-226-2636 Ext. 276

Save money on your car insurance! A $33.00 fee payable to Diana APW (Accident Prevention Workshop) by check, money order or cash is due the day of class. Please arrive early to sign in. Late comers will not be admitted. Please bring a pen and your driver’s license. Registration is required.

Evening Book

Discussion

Monday, February 23

7:00 - 8:30 PM

This program will be held in person and via Zoom

The Secret Life of Sunflowers by Marta Molnar

Download a copy of this book from Libby or pick up a copy at the Circulation Desk. Registration is required.

New Beginnings

Tuesday, February 24

6:30 - 8:00 PM

If you are divorced or widowed, single, aged 50 plus who would like a new beginning, come and be inspired to make new friends and learn new skills towards reinventing yourself. Social worker and life coach Marla Matthews will lead this discussion. Registration is required.

Everyday AI: Get Started with ChatGPT

Wednesday, February 25

6:30 - 7:30 PM AI isn’t the future—it’s the now! Learn how to use ChatGPT, a powerful AI tool that can help you write, research, brainstorm, and more. In this workshop, led by Lindsay Citrano from Nassau BOCES, you’ll practice crafting prompts and explore creative, personal, and professional uses for AI in your everyday life. No tech experience needed—just curiosity and an open mind. Registration is required.

Paint Night for Teens and Adults

Thursday, February 26 6:30 - 8:30 PM Registration begins Tuesday, November 25 at 10:30 AM. Please call or stop by the Information Desk to register. Unleash your inner artist at our paint night, a fun and relaxing evening designed for teens and adults to enjoy together! Whether you’re a seasoned painter or picking up a brush for the first time, this guided step-by-step experience with artist Elizabeth Gilmore from The Color Palette makes it easy to create your own masterpiece. Share laughs, spark creativity, and make lasting memories—one brushstroke at a time. All materials provided. No experience needed, just bring your imagination! Adults must register with their teen. Registration is required.

LI Pizza Strong aims to raise funds for the family of Officer Patricia Espinosa who was tragically killed by a drunk driver. On February 25th, participating pizzerias will donate $5 from every pie sold to her family. 100% of the proceeds will be given to her family.

Bay Village Civic Association Celebrates 19th Annual Brunch

The nineteenth annual Brunch of the Bay Village Civic Association was held on February 1 at the Unqua Yacht Club. During the event, Father Randolph Geminder was recognized for fifty years of dedicated service to both Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church and the broader Amityville community.

BVCA President Joan Donnison presented Father Geminder with a plaque on behalf of the

association. The Village of Amityville Board of Trustees and Mayor Mike O’Neill also honored him with a proclamation recognizing his contributions. Additional presentations were made by Suffolk County Legislator

Jason Richberg and State Assemblyman Kwani B. O’Pharrow. Father Geminder thanked attendees for the love and support he has received over the years.

Event Chairperson Kathy Ward and her committee

Honor your Hometown Hero with a custom banner displayed in

North Babylon, West Babylon, Village of Lindenhurst, Deer Park, Wheatley Heights, North Amityville, Wyandanch, Copiague, Village of Amityville

Space is limited. Don’t delay.

organized a successful brunch. Musical interludes were provided by pianists Margaret Brooks and Meghan Chimienti. The event also served as a fundraiser, enabling the organization to award scholarships to local high school students and support community beautification and cleanup projects. For more information on becoming a member, contact bayvillagecivic@ aol.com

BROOKHAVEN NATIONAL LAB WORKERS W/CANCER

1947-1993

$150,000 - $400,000

If you worked on-site at the lab for 250 workdays between 1947 and 1993 for Associated Universities, the AEC/DOE, or a subcontractor, or were a researcher living on-site at Brookhaven National Lab, and were later diagnosed with one of 23 specified types of cancer*, I will help you, or direct survivors, get a six figure entitlement award. Awards range from $150,000 to $400,000, and include worker medical benefits, including home health care. This is a taxpayer funded entitlement for DOE workers/survivors. It involves no liability to any employer and is not a lawsuit.

Since 2007 I’ve done this nationally for 7,000 sick DOE workers or their survivors. I have helped more than half of the 1,000 paid BNL families receive their cancer awards. Non-cancer respiratory and renal disease cases are also possible. Let me ask a few simple questions. I’ll give you a frank (and free) assessment as to whether I can help. I’m not a lawyer and this is no lawsuit, I am a national expert on EEOICPA entitlement. I unravel the frustrating red tape so you don’t have to. You get paid directly by the U.S. Treasury. My fee is so modest L.I. lawyers hire me to do the work for their own family members. No appeal fees. No fine print.